Hannah Stephenson: "Ancient Language"

If you stand at the edge of the forest
and stare into it
every tree at the edge will blow a little extra
oxygen toward you

It has been proven
Leaves have admitted it

The pines I have known
have been especially candid

One said
that all breath in this world
is roped together

that breathing is
the most ancient language

"Ancient Language" by Hannah Stephenson. Text as posted on the poet's blog (12/31/2013). © Hannah Stephenson. Reprinted by permission of the poet.

Art credit: "Pine Forest, Landes, Frances," image by unknown photographer.